If you are looking for a treadmill for the home it can be a little overwhelming with all the choices out there. This Treadmill buying guide will give you some valuable tips on purchasing the right home fitness machine for you.
Here are 4 easy steps to follow when purchasing a home treadmill.
Step 1 – Walking or Running?
It’s a simple question which needs to be answered. Not all treadmills are designed for running/jogging so purchase one that is, if you need it. Most cheap treadmills under $500-600 are designed for walking only. The deck, frame and belt of your treadmill needs to be strong to withstand running pressure, especially if you weigh more. Most treadmills for walking only have a single ply tread belt that is under sized for running. If you plan to run on your treadmill make sure you check out, the shock absorption the machine has. A treadmill costing $1500-$1800 and above usually has a good shock absorption.
Step 2 – Folding or Static Design
Decide on whether you want a folding or static design. It all depends on how much space you have and your preference. You can purchase good quality folding treadmills for around $1600. For better stability, heavier weight and deck performance it is recommended you purchase a static design. Static decks are more durable because they do not have any hinge points between them.
Step 3 – Display Feature Options
When purchasing a treadmill there are many display feature options. You may become overwhelmed with too many options to think of. To simply things, here are a list of must have display options to look out for.
- eKg heart rate control
- should have pre-programmed workouts, go for 6 minimum
- display should have speed, time, calories, distance and heart rate
- LCD program display to show the progress of your workout
- at least 3 year deck, 2 year labor, 1 year labor warranty
- a top speed of 10 m.p.h
- 2.0 h.p. continuous duty motor
- strong lift motor for inclining deck
- 2 ply treadbelt
Step 4 – Treadmill Budget
The price of a treadmill range from $250 – $6000. Any treadmill under $500 will not have many of the component mentioned above. The warranty will be short, the tread belts will have no durability, no heart control or display modules.
The best home treadmills will be priced at around the $1000 minimum-$3000 mark. You will get all the basic treadmill features for example, 6-10 programs, 1 year warranty, 2-3 h.p. continuous motor, power incline, power speed control, very good shock absorption etc.
If you decide to purchase anything above the $4000 mark, you are looking at health club level treadmills. You will be getting higher incline levels, more speed levels, and a high level of 5 h.p.
You need to establish what you really want in your home treadmill. Make a list of all the must haves. In the treadmill market especially, you get what you pay for, do keep this in mind.
